the Phoenicians
The Phoenicians were an ancient civilization from the region of modern-day Lebanon, thriving around 1500 to 300 BCE. They were renowned seafarers and traders, establishing powerful city-states like Tyre, Sidon, and Byblos. The Phoenicians are credited with developing one of the first alphabets, which greatly influenced later writing systems, including Greek and Latin. Their trade networks spanned the Mediterranean, leading to the exchange of goods, culture, and ideas. They also introduced the purple dye from murex shells, which became a valuable commodity. The Phoenicians played a crucial role in shaping the ancient Mediterranean world.
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The Phoenicians were an ancient civilization that thrived around the Mediterranean from about 1500 to 300 BCE, primarily in what is now Lebanon. They were renowned traders, shipbuilders, and seafarers, establishing trade networks and colonies across the Mediterranean, including in places like Carthage. The Phoenicians are best known for developing one of the earliest alphabets, which influenced many modern writing systems. Their contributions to navigation, commerce, and culture played a significant role in the spread of ideas and goods in the ancient world, making them a key player in Mediterranean history.